I’ve only ever got into anime shows for their quirky story or character personality development.
Not once was it for the design or terrible animation. If I ever do refer to breathtaking anime it would be studio ghibli but that’s about it. And even given its age, today’s anime really can’t compare. They just wouldn’t put in the work like they once did.
Not surprised a lot of kids get deep into it and then drop it fast as they grow older. Cutesy wears off when that’s the only thing going for it. It gets annoying after a while.
If you watched cowboy bebop have you ever watched vash the stampede?